Join the Indian Army: NCC Cadets Can Now Become Officers Directly, No Exam Required

The Indian Army has announced a special entry scheme for NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadets, offering a direct pathway to become a Lieutenant. Under the NCC Special Entry Scheme-124 (October 2026), eligible male and female graduates can join the Army through the Short Service Commission without any written examination.

Key Details of NCC Special Entry Scheme 2026

• Recruiting Authority: Indian Army
• Entry: NCC Special Entry Scheme-124, Short Service Commission (SSC) for male and female candidates
• Number of Vacancies: 76 (Male-70, Female-06)
• Application Start Date: 13 Feb 2026, 3 PM
• Application End Date: 16 Mar 2026
• Age Limit: 19-25 years as of 1 July 2026
• Eligibility: Unmarried male and female graduates (final-year students can also apply if they complete their degree before course commencement)
• Selection Process: Application → Shortlisting → SSB Interview → Medical → Merit List → Joining Letter
• Pre-Commission Training Academy: Officers Training Academy, Chennai
• Training Duration: 49 weeks
• Stipend During Training: ₹56,100 per month
• Rank After Training: Lieutenant
• Post-Commission Salary (CTC): Approx. ₹17-18 lakh per annum

Applications are being accepted via the official Army website: joinindianarmy.nic.in

Eligibility Criteria

• Graduate from a recognized university. Final-year students may apply but must complete their degree before joining. Shortlisting will be based on marks obtained in the first two/three years of the degree course.
• Must hold an NCC ‘C’ Certificate with a minimum B grade.
• Must have at least 2-3 years of service in the Senior Division/Wing of NCC.
• Candidates without a valid or provisional NCC C Certificate on the date of application are not eligible.

Service Conditions

Selected officers will initially serve 10 years, extendable further under Army rules. Extended service allows officers to take leave for civil jobs, higher education, or business purposes, subject to approval.

Physical Standards

Before joining the Pre-Commission Training, candidates must meet the following standards:

• 2.4 km Run: Men – 10 min 30 sec; Women – 13 min
• Push-ups, sit-ups, squats, lunges, swimming, and endurance exercises as per Army requirements

Selected candidates will be sent to the training academy based on the final merit list.

This NCC Special Entry offers an excellent opportunity for cadets to serve the nation while starting their careers directly as commissioned officers.